Rekindling Respect and Recognition for Our Teachers

 

As a retired private teacher passionate about the art of teaching, I find myself increasingly concerned about the diminishing role and respect for teachers in today’s education system. It's disheartening to see how the profession, once held in the highest regard, is now struggling under various pressures. Here are some key issues that need urgent attention:

1. Respect in Society:

There was a time when teachers were revered and their opinions valued in community matters. They were given a high place in society. Sadly, this honor and respect have waned over the years. Today, teachers often find themselves marginalized and their contributions undervalued.

2. Increased Workload:

The expanding syllabi and limited time are pressing teachers to do more with less. This leaves little room for quality education and meaningful interactions with students, which are crucial for effective learning.

3. Cut-throat Competition:

The intense competition among private schools and the obsessive focus on marks have further restricted the scope of genuine teaching. The education system is becoming more about numbers than nurturing young minds.

4. Additional Duties:

Teachers are often burdened with numerous non-teaching duties, whether in private or government schools. This not only distracts them from their primary role but also adds unnecessary stress.

5. Harsh Working Conditions:

Many institutions fail to provide a conducive working environment for teachers. Basic amenities like separate restrooms, sitting rooms, and recreational facilities are often lacking, making the workplace less pleasant.

6. Undue Demands:

Teachers face constant pressure from both parents and school managements. These demands can be overwhelming and detract from the teacher's ability to focus on teaching.

7. Additional Working Hours:

Many schools run unauthorized study hours early in the morning and late into the evening. Teachers are made to supervise these sessions, extending their working hours significantly without proper compensation.

8. Unequal and Meager Pay:

The disparity in salaries between government and private school teachers is staggering. Many private school teachers work longer hours for significantly lower pay, which is often below minimum wage.

9. No Rights – Only Responsibilities:

Teachers in private and corporate schools often lack basic rights. They work under harsh conditions, with little job security or autonomy, akin to medieval servitude under the strict control of their superiors.

Education is a vital sector, heavily invested in by both governments and individuals. However, the most crucial component—the teachers—are frequently neglected and disregarded. It is high time we acknowledge and address these issues, reinstating the respect and support our teachers deserve.

Let us strive to create an environment where teachers are valued, well-compensated, and supported, allowing them to impart the best possible education to our future generations.